Synthetic Marijuana has multiple names, including “K2” and “Spice”. K2 and Spice are the brand names given to synthetic marijuana. Throughout the 2000’s, Texans sold synthetic marijuana legally. Sellers marketed K2 as a legal alternative to marijuana. The producers intended synthetic marijuana to provide the same effects as marijuana, but be legal. The use of this product is spreading rapidly throughout the country.
The creators designed synthetic marijuana to look like marijuana. The product is advertised as being a all-natural. However, plant material is dried and then sprayed with a compound that mimics the effects of THC. Users smoke the product like marijuana. Users experience euphoria and sometimes hallucinations. This substance may have serious side effects. There are reports that some users require psychiatric care after use. From 2010 to 2011, calls to poison control about K2 more than doubled. (2,906 -6,959)
Texans have a number of misconceptions about K2. First, users often take K2 because they believe it will not show up in drug tests. The human body leaves a chemical in the urine when it breaks down K2. It will show up in drug tests. Users usually discover this after a probation officer gives them a drug test. Prosecutors in Fort Worth can seek revocation of probation after a positive drug test.
Secondly, many people especially younger people believe synthetic marijuana is legal. In 2011, the Texas Legislature passed a bill that made possession of K2 illegal. Under Texas law, possession of K2 has the same penalties as possession of marijuana. Possession of two ounces or less is a Class B misdemeanor.
Have you or a loved one been arrested for possession or distribution of K2? Drug possession cases often require quick action. If you would like a free one hour consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, call my office at 817-231-0023.
For information about synthetic drug enforcement, click here to visit the White House website.
